UNI

New Delhi, Sep 27: Notwithshtanding NDA Convener George Fernandes' annoucement that he would be 'happy to quit' the coalition if he was not wanted there anymore, the BJP is still hopeful that the situation could be salvaged.

BJP, which has publicly refuted Mr Fernandes' criticism of Bihar coalition, headed by Nitish Kumar, but is also of the opinion that the former JD (U) Chief should not be made to feel 'marginalised'.

''The JD (U) leadership should have been tactful enough to concede his demands like a Rajya Sabha seat easily,'' they feel.

Although the BJP leaders have not discussed the issues with their JD (U) counterparts, the leaders feel that Mr Fernandes deserved a better treatment considering his age. ''We feel that there is still scope for taking remedial action,'' a BJP leader from Bihar said, remarking that in the decision-making process in Indian society, elders still called shots and the JD (U) would gain by treating him better than what they are doing.

If it is an end of the road for George in JD (U), the BJP is expecting him to initiate steps to revive Samata Party, which would spare the NDA the embarassment of scouting for a new Convenor. The party is not expecting a situation where Mr Fernandes will join hands with Samajwadi Party Chief and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mulayam Singh.